Procurement Manager

Introduction

Are you an experienced Procurement Manager with a strong background in international sourcing, import/export operations, and supplier negotiations? Do you thrive on building own-brand ranges, driving margins, and managing global supply pipelines in a fast-paced wholesale environment?

A well-established wholesale distributor in the plumbing and sanitaryware sector is seeking an experienced Procurement Manager to join their team. The ideal candidate will combine strong commercial acumen with hands-on experience sourcing and importing from international markets such as China and India.

If you are a strategic, detail-driven procurement professional ready to take ownership of a full buying function, we want to hear from you.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will lead the end-to-end procurement function — from developing and expanding the own-brand range to managing international sourcing, landed cost calculations, supplier negotiations, and import/export operations — while leading and developing the buying team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the development and expansion of the own-brand range, including product selection, specification, packaging, and factory allocation

• Conduct market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive pricing

• Act as the primary link between sales, marketing, and QC on product range gaps, translating customer and market feedback into sourcing briefs and new product introductions

• Conduct supplier due diligence, including factory assessments, sample approval processes, and quality verification (in coordination with QC, ensuring compliance with SABS, SATAS, and JASWIC where necessary)

• Manage inventory planning and forecast product import quantities based on demand and market trends

• Manage landed cost calculations, including freight, duties, and foreign exchange, to protect target gross margins

• Lead and develop the buying function, including direct management of the junior buyer responsible for local suppliers

• Source products from international markets, including China, India, and other regions

• Negotiate pricing and terms with local and international suppliers

• Monitor shipping schedules and track ETAs to ensure timely stock arrival

• Oversee import and export processes, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations

• Manage national trade relationships and distribution channels

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Purchasing, Business Administration, or a related field

Experience

• 5+ years' experience in a purchasing/procurement management role, preferably in plumbing, sanitaryware, hardware, or building materials

• Demonstrated experience sourcing and importing goods from China, India, or other overseas markets, including managing long lead-time (3+ month) import pipelines

• Working knowledge of Incoterms, customs procedures, and import/export documentation (bills of lading, letters of credit, customs clearance, etc.)

• Proficiency in inventory and demand planning to determine optimal order quantities

• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of successful price negotiations

• Solid understanding of freight forwarding, shipping lines, and logistics coordination

• Knowledge of local and national trade regulations and compliance requirements

Technical Skills

• Familiarity with ERP/inventory management systems (e.g. SYSPRO, Sage, SAP, or similar – SYSPRO advantageous)

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, forecasting, and reporting

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple suppliers and shipments simultaneously

• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet tight deadlines

• Valid driver's licence and own transport

• Willingness to travel internationally for supplier visits and trade shows, as required

Why Join Us?

• Join a leading wholesale distributor in the plumbing and sanitaryware sector

• Take ownership of a broad, high-impact procurement and own-brand function

• Manage international sourcing pipelines and global supplier relationships

• Direct impact on gross margins, product range, and commercial performance

• Report directly to the Managing Director with strong exposure to strategic decision-making

• Competitive remuneration package with career growth opportunities

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to click on the apply link and submit an updated CV.

Only applications submitted via Pnet will be considered.

Our client is an equal opportunity employer. Should you not hear from us within 14 days of the advert closing, please consider your application unsuccessful.